AB5 has been part of the California trucking landscape for years, but recent activity signals something new. Is enforcement beginning to take shape?
Last month, FreightWaves reported what appeared to be the first AB5 enforcement action involving trucking companies in California. Regulators cited three carriers after reviewing how they were using contractors for driving work.
For many fleets, this marked a meaningful shift. AB5 has been widely discussed since its introduction, but enforcement has been limited. As this could be the first action on record, more carriers are reexamining how they manage their driver workforce as they plan for 2026.
While only a small group of companies were cited, the implications extend far beyond those cases. This activity suggests increased attention from state agencies and more scrutiny of contractor-based driving work.
This environment has many fleets looking for workforce strategies that offer predictability and confidence.
Across the state, fleets are transitioning toward outsourcing their drivers because this provides a clearer operational foundation. With W2 staffing and outsourcing, carriers can benefit from:
This shift is about choosing a workforce structure that feels steadier during a time when contractor usage is receiving increased attention.
For carriers seeking stability and a workforce model that supports day-to-day operations, TransForce offers a practical solution through our Managed Workforce program.
A smooth transition for your current drivers
We guide the conversion of your existing drivers onto TransForce payroll so you can continue working with the drivers you know and trust. Our process is structured to minimize disruption, with a 99 percent average onboarding retention rate.
Full driver administration handled by our team
TransForce manages payroll, benefits, onboarding support, and ongoing driver administration so your team can stay focused on operations.
Operational stability as business needs change
We help you adjust coverage as lanes, volumes, or schedules shift, supporting both steady operations and seasonal demand.
Ongoing safety and driver support
We support driver readiness through ongoing training, engagement, and safety-focused practices. Over time, TransForce drivers have recorded 27 percent fewer reportable accidents than private fleet drivers.
Backfill support when needed
If drivers are out due to vacation, illness, or schedule gaps, TransForce can help provide coverage to keep essential routes moving.
This approach gives carriers a predictable, supported workforce model built around continuity, flexibility, and operational confidence.
For fleets experiencing uncertainty or increased concerns on contractor usage, Managed Workforce creates a clearer, more predictable path forward.
TransForce offers multiple workforce solutions, but Managed Workforce is the most practical fit for carriers navigating rising attention on contractor arrangements. It reduces operational stress, improves day-to-day consistency, and provides a partner focused on supporting your business as conditions evolve.
If you are reviewing your strategy or exploring a more predictable workforce model for next year, our team is ready to help.
See how Managed Workforce supports carriers across California:
Focus on Your Business, Let Us Manage Your Drivers